It seems that with Russell T Davies’ time onthe show nearing its end, Tennant is also coming to the end of his contract, and so the top BBC chaps are wanting him to stay on for the sake of program continuity.

In the old days of Doctor Who, lead actors William Hartnell, Patrick Troughton and Tom Baker each worked with multiple producers, so this type of development is nothing new.

According to one of those mysterious BBC sources (these guys should really be in fear of their jobs)

"Everyone assumes David is quitting but that’s not the case. We’re hoping he will be back.

"The situation as it stands is that no deal has been discussed yet for the next series of Doctor Who. That, however, is about to change.

"David is brilliant in the role and naturally we hope he will continue. We’re not considering anyone else at this time."

A package comprising £100,000 per episode as well as further drama roles is likely to tempt Tennant to stay in the role longer – although of course he’s never said when he would leave.

"I’ve been asked when I’m quitting since the first day I took the part. I’ve not quit – I’ve just not been offered another deal yet."